411's Holiday Games Roundtable 2007: Holiday Buyer's Guide

Posted by Sean Garmer on 12.21.2007

Come join us for the 411 Holiday Buyer's Guide.

411 Holiday Games Roundtable 2007





Happy Holidays everyone, it is getting towards that time where family steps in front, we all think about the presents we may receive under the tree, and Video Games are usually a hot property for that. So, in order to help people looking at what to buy this year as it relates to that hot property, we are here with a Holiday Buyer's Guide of sorts. I don’t think we need to delay this any longer, having trouble finding a game this holiday season. Read on, we’re sure you will find something anyone can enjoy.



Meet Some of the 411 Games Staff


Please welcome a newbie to these roundtables, and writer of the SIXAXIS News report, with all things Sony, Mark Samela

A roundtable veteran, the Hate Master, and writer of the Angry Gamer column, included is a letter to Santa detailing many things that should happen in gaming. Give it up for Damian Sarcuni

Another roundtable newbie, he does double duty at 411 writing for the Movie section and writing the Wonder Years column (with detailed information on Square-Enix’s ActRaiser) for the Games section. The Bearded Wonder, Owain J. Brimfield

This man is no slouch to the roundtables, he is also a very important cog in the 411 Games field, as he writes Nintendophiles every week, keeping us all abreast of what happens at the Big N, Theo Fraser is that man.

Someone that brings experience from around the gaming nation, as well as great game reviews Rod Oracheski is just an all around cool guy.

Jordan Williams Teaches us all what we’ve learned this year with his Working Rant He also provides a great addition to this roundtable.

Filling you in on the gaming news with his news report, Select & Start Vincent Chiucchi

Finally, I, Sean Garmer I am a reviewer and responsible for everything to do with roundtables in the Games section.



1. Biggest Winner of the Month


Mark Samela: Activision/Blizzard Welcome to a new buttload of cash, guys. I hear they’re gonna print Starcraft 2 discs out of pure diamonds and use computers made of gold, kind of like me.

Damian Sarcuni: Activision/Blizzard Merger my ass! Blizzard has been outright bought. Activision is the older, larger gaming company and their head honcho is taking the presidential throne in this deal. Add in the fact that Blizzard has lost several of its top programmers to Microsoft and independent ventures and its obvious who had the bargaining power in this deal. Regardless, both Blizzard and Activision do come out on top in this deal as stock prices are now soaring and for the most part people get to keep their jobs. Yay, capitalism!

Owain J. Brimfield Nintendo which with the release of Galaxy must now have more genuine "best game ever" contenders on its books than any other software company on the planet. It's a glorious game and proves that for all the company is doing to revolutionize the way we play games, it still hasn't lost its focus on good old-fashioned enjoyable gameplay.

Theo Fraser: Eidos Interactive Deus Ex 3 was officially announced, and the first trailer immediately sent the internet on fire with speculation. This shows that Deus Ex is still a hot commodity, and development has barely even begun. Fans are jumping on board the hype bandwagon, and as such, Eidos will be the talk of the internet for the next 2-3 years.

Rod Oracheski: Bioware Mass Effect is off to a huge start, selling over a million already and far ahead of expectations. Hopefully the sequels aren't going to be influenced' by EA.

Jordan Williams: Microsoft & Nintendo As I looked at this question I really couldn't choose which one I was going to go with, they both had a pretty awesome month in terms of getting thier product to the market. Microsoft dropped a ton of game this month, many that people are still going to play for months to come, and Nintendo FINALLY got it's flagship out. Pretty much if you owned a console that wasn't the PS3(Not knocking it, Uncharted is AWESOME.) then you had a good month.

Vincent Chiucchi: Nintendo Super Mario Galaxy was released and is widely becoming one of the greatest video games of all time. If you own a Wii and you don't try to get this game, what the hell is up with you?

Sean Garmer: Nintendo Wiimania is going nuts this Holiday season, I mean, I’ve gone to many stores and when all of them have to put up signs saying “Sorry, No Wii’s” You know, it’s a hot item. Not to mention that Super Mario Galaxy came out in November, that has Nintendo flying high this month.


Biggest Loser of the Month:


Mark Samela: Sony Sorry Sony, you got your butt whooped by the 360 and Wii again this month in terms of quality and sales. Here’s to 2008 *wooooooo*.

Damian Sarcuni: Holiday Buyers What an awful season this has been! It's still just as hard to get your hands on a Wii, Xbox 360 games have been jacked up in price by about $10 each, stores are pulling bait and switch deals left and right and the shopping scene is a general mess. I'm not Jewish, but I'm seriously considering celebrating Passover this holiday season. That mean's I'm going to "pass over" the local retailers and wait for post-holiday internet sales before making my purchases.

Owain J. Brimfield Bad Guitar Hero on Wii Possibly one of the stupidest development mistakes in recent memory - how on earth can you condone releasing a music-based game in anything less than stereo? Still, at least they've been promised replacement discs. Now if only we could get some decent downloadable content…

Theo Fraser: Parents I feel bad for all the parents out there who have the unenviable task of finding a Wii this Christmas. On Ebay, Nintendo’s console is going for around $600 and that’ll only increase as we reach nearer and nearer the big day. If those parents are truly desperate to get one, they’re going to be forking over a helluva lot of cash.

Rod Oracheski: Eidos Interactive Not only did they release a pretty sub-standard game in Kane & Lynch, but they also caught a great deal of flack over the Gamespot/Gerstmann thing. Whether or not they actually complained about the review and pulled their advertising, there's no doubt Eidos has been damaged by the whole affair. Only release good games from now on!

Jordan Williams Holiday Buyers Yikes. Want a Wii? Too bad. Want Rock Band? Too bad. You would think that companies would see this sort of thing coming and plan ahead so they have enough in stock by the time this hell hole of a shopping period comes around. But maybe that's the point...I'm looking at you Nintendo

Vincent Chiucchi: Those wanting a Wii These people still have trouble finding one and the only real guarantee of buying one is to buy one of those expensive bundles. Sucks to be them.

Sean Garmer: Holiday Shoppers The Wii is still the hottest thing out there and that is going to make it a pain to find in stores. It might mean that they settle for other systems or their kids get something they did not want. Either way it makes press for Nintendo, and parents are left with less cash in their pockets.


Which Next-Gen system (Portables can be included) Would You recommend buying?



Mark Samela Playstation 3 Up until this year I would have said the 360 because of games like Call of Duty 4 and Halo 3, but now that those two games are out, there’s not a whole lot more coming in 2008. Sure Fable 2, Left 4 Dead, and Too Human will be out, but you’re likely going to buy a console for the games coming next year in addition to the current library, I don’t think anyone’s going to buy a 360 now because they heard Gears of War was good. Next year the PS3 has MGS4, Killzone 2, Gran Turismo 5, and many other major blockbusters that you can’t afford to miss. You can’t go wrong with a 360 or a Wii *Super Smash Bros Brawl*, but if you can only get one I gotta recommend you go with MGS4 and the PS3.

Damian Sarcuni: Nintendo Wii I'm sorry. God I'm sorry. I wish I didn't have to recommend a system that is so hard to find, so obvious in its extensive demand. But the Nintendo Wii is still the most innovative piece of technology on the market right now. It is a fun for all ages entertainment system, that immerses players like never before. Games like Trauma Center: Second Opinion, Metroid Prime 3, Brain Age and even Soul Calibur Legends will have entire families in shock and awe at just how far video games have come. There is more on the horizon too, as new peripherals and games such as Wii Fit are going to make Nintendo's brain child into even more of a household useable product. I know it's probably causing dozens of parents and less mobile consumers a ton of headaches, but the Nintendo Wii is still the best system to buy.

Owain J. Brimfield Nintendo Wii Although, the PS3 does have an interesting lineup for the coming year. Still, nothing will beat online Smash Bros. and Mario Kart. Nothing. Plus, the system now has a true killer app in the form of a certain space-bound plumber…

Theo Fraser: Nintendo Wii I don’t want this to be seen as “Nintendo bias” on my part; the 360 and PS3 are great at the moment, with an even stronger 2008 lined up. But now is the time to own a Wii, if you don’t already do so. Of course, finding one is going to be the major problem this Christmas, but that doesn’t affect the fact that the Wii is THE console every household needs to own. With Super Mario Galaxy and Metroid Prime 3: Corruption out on the shelves, the killer apps are out there, and the ever-increasing catalogue of quality titles means there really is something for everyone.

Rod Oracheski: XBOX 360 I'd probably still recommend the Xbox 360 to someone just getting into the next-gen hardware. The library is already there, and growing stronger all the time. Atlus signing on to port those crazy niche titles over from Japan will help broaden the software library even more. The Wii is still the strongest secondary system, while I'd still class the PS3 as a system that only hardcore gamers will really appreciate right now. That might change in the spring, when the Dual Shock controllers should replace the SIXAXIS and some more games have hit shelves.

Jordan Williams: Nintendo Wii For two really big reasons. One of which that the Wii buzz is only going to get worse with Super Smash Brothers Brawl and Mario Kart Wii dropping next year, so you might as well get one NOW while you can. Also, I think whomever was going to get an Xbox 360 or a PS3 has gotten one by now by way of Halo 3, CoD4, or anticipating Metal Gear Solid 4. So now that the hardcore crowd has thier 'primary' console, they can go ahead and get the Wii as well.

Vincent Chiucchi: PS3 (mainly because Wii is hard to find) As much as I would say the Wii, the odds of grabbing one are slim to none, so I'm going with the PS3. The console is now at $399 and there are great games to buy.

Sean Garmer: Nintendo Wii Yeah, this is the hard to find system, but the Wii appeals to everyone and its not just something to buy the kiddies. This is the party system, the family system, and the, casual gamer system. I’m sure the Nintendo fanboys are screaming that there are hardcore games on the system, and while it may be true, there is no doubt that Nintendo is aiming at families to take their system to new heights. Super Mario Galaxy, Metroid Prime 3, Mario Strikers all promote different kinds of things to the machine. As do, Super Smash Bros Brawl, Mario Kart, and Wii Fit that are set to come soon. It may not have the huge big name games that XBOX 360 or PS3 have coming in later 2008, for now, and the near future, Nintendo has everyone beat.


Classic Game of the Month:


Mark Samela Rap Jam - Volume 1 (SNES)

Here’s a picture of the game:




While a bit of a rip off of NBA Jam *and not done quite as well*, look at this roster of characters. Public Enemy, L.L. Cool J., Naughty By Nature, Coolio, Queen Latifa, House of Pain, Onyx, and many more. Screw Def Jam, any game where I can play as Flavor Flav and beat up Yoyo and Queen Latifa is a must buy for me.


Damian Sarcuni: Super Mario Bros 2: The Lost Levels (Nintendo Wii Virtual Console) Before there were voice acted Italian accents, analog controls, and cutesy long-tongued dinos running around the mushroom kingdom, there was nothing but FRUSTRATION AND ANGER. The Lost Levels remind us of just how hard the original Mario games were, and today's generation of players needs to respect that. If you have the means, buy your kid a Wii, then download this title just to make sure they don't grow up too soft.

Owain J. Brimfield Shadowrun (SEGA Genesis) A dark, dystopic sci-fi RPG based on the eponymous pen-and-paper classic, better than the SNES prequel, you can read my full take on this game here

Theo Fraser: Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES/Nintendo Wii Virtual Console) Had it not been for the success of this game, we wouldn’t be playing Super Mario Galaxy right now. This is the pinnacle game of the 8-bit era, and now you can pick it up for just 500 points on the Virtual Console. Bargain.

Rod Oracheski: Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES/Nintendo Wii Virtual Console) My wife picked this up a week or two ago, and she calls on me to get her through 'the hard parts' from time to time. One of the best 2D Mario games, and I really enjoyed going back to when finding a power-up made you wonder what you could do, not what you were supposed to do.

Jordan Williams: Kameo: Elements of Power (XBOX 360) Since I finally got my own Xbox I picked this up from a friend and I will say that this is single handedly one of the hardest games I have played in awhile. What is with Rare and making games that are seemingly easy in the surface but then have some HORRIBLE twist that make them painfully hard. Anyone who has played Kameo will understand my new found hate for the letter 'A' and the walrus.

Vincent Chiucchi: Starfox 64 (N64/Nintendo Wii Virtual Console) It's as awesome today as it was 10 years ago. So worth downloading.

Sean Garmer: Final Fantasy IV (SNES/GBA/PS1) I’m making my way through this for the first time, and its awesome. One of the best FF’s ever, great story, the battle system is basic but that’s not what it is about. If you want some old school RPG action, pick this up.



Best Game in the Month of November


Mark Samela: Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii) While Call of Duty 4 is great, I get bored of playing it after a couple hours. Galaxy on the other hand, is a masterpiece. I can play that game for days and never complain. The best 3-D Mario adventure? While not as revolutionary as Super Mario 64, Super Mario Galaxy is in fact the best 3-D Mario adventure.

Damian Sarcuni: Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii) There isn't much else to say. Nintendo has done it again and added even more personality into the Mario universe. If the Wii wasn't already a hot enough console this holiday season, it will be burning like a nitro-induced flame over the next month.

Owain J. Brimfield: Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii) Not just the best game of the month, but the best game of the year, and who knows, maybe a few years down the line we'll be talking of it in the same revered tones as SM64. I wasn't one of the people who felt that Super Mario Sunshine was a letdown - it's not quintessentially Mario, but still makes my top thirty all-time games - but Galaxy easily tops it. Kudos, Nintendo, Wii has finally proved once and for all that it's a gaming Revolution.

Theo Fraser: Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii) Absolutely no question, I fail to see how anyone could vote for anything else. This is gaming at its finest and the high point of the Wii’s life cycle so far.

Rod Oracheski: Mass Effect (XBOX 360) The excellent storyline, presented in an all-new way with the conversation wheel, and decent-if-not-stellar gunplay completely overshadow the minor technical issues found here. Super Mario Galaxy was a close second, but I just didn't find myself as gripped by the game as I did with Mass Effect.

Jordan Williams: Assassins Creed (XBOX 360/PS3) Super Mario Galaxy, Mass Effect, and Call of Duty 4 are all great, but the simple fact is that I don't OWN those games and haven't played them nearly enough to call them the best game of the month. I actually DID own AC for quite a bit and had fun with it up until the very end, so it gets the nod from me.

Vincent Chiucchi: Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii) Mario owns everyone. Period.

Sean Garmer: Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii) Only game of the new ones that I played this month, and probably the best one too. Nintendo have done it again, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it ends up as game of the year too.

Winner: Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii, Nintendo)

Overall Winner: Nintendo It is rather unanimous this month, no doubt about that we think Nintendo and Mario steal the show.


Currently Gaming:


Mark Samela: Unreal Tournament 3 (PS3), Rock Band (XBOX 360), Time Crisis 4 (PS3), Call of Duty 4 (XBOX 360), Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii), and COOKING MAMA (NintendoWii)

Damian Sarcuni: Soul Calibur: Legends (Nintendo Wii), Trauma Center: Second Opinion (Nintendo Wii), Need for Speed Pro Street, Frontmission (Nintendo DS)

Owain J. Brimfield Guitar Hero 2 & 3 (PS2), Sensible Soccer (SNES/XBOX Live Arcade), Shadowrun (SEGA Genesis)

Theo Fraser: Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii), Metroid Prime 3: Corruption (Nintendo Wii), The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass (Nintendo DS), Final Fantasy VI (GBA), Half Life 2 (PC)

Rod Oracheski: Call of Duty 4 (XBOX 360), Mass Effect (XBOX 360), Halo 3 (XBOX 360), Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii), Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune (PS3)

Vincent Chiucchi: Star Fox 64 (N64/ Nintendo Virtual Console), Brain Age 2 (Nintendo DS), Jump Ultimate Stars (Nintendo DS)

Sean Garmer: Final Fantasy IV (SNES/ GBA/ PS1), FIFA 08 (XBOX 360), Madden 08 (XBOX 360), Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii).



Here is the 411 Holiday Buyers Guide. We are trustworthy people and want to insure that you will find something for anyone on this list.



Action or Adventure, or both


Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune (PS3 Adventure Game, SCEA & Naughty Dog)



Game Rating: Teen

Game Review


Mark Samela: “Naughty Dog has created a game that has arguably the best storyline and dialogue in a video game this year. Add in the top notch graphics and fun gameplay and you have the best Adventure game of 2007.”

Rod Oracheski: “I'm looking forward to a sequel, though hopefully it's one without SIXAXIS grenade controls. Much better than the demo indicated.”

Assassins Creed (XBOX 360 & PS3 Adventure Game, Ubisoft)



Game Rating: Mature


Jordan Williams: “Very good action adventure game for those who still like that sort of thing. It is a bit on the short side, only clocking in at about 6-8 hours, but for what little time it gives you, it never lets up.”

Sean Garmer: “Everyone may complain about it being short or that the missions get repetitive, but really the story and concept are great. Its set in a time during the Crusades, and that in itself makes it interesting, besides, who doesn’t like getting to play as an assassin.”


Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Wii Action Game, Nintendo)



Game Rating: Everyone

Game Review

Theo Fraser: “Needs no introduction really. Chances are you’ve already read a gazillion times how incredible this is, so allow me to reiterate. It’s FAN-FRIGGIN’-TASTIC. If you’ve been on the fence about buying a Wii, buy one for this. If you own a Wii but haven’t bought Mario’s latest adventure yet, get it pronto. Games like this are the reason I am so passionate about this industry, and at times like this I am so proud to be a games journalist. For all the crap out there, every once in a while a diamond like this comes along and makes it all worth it. I can’t give any higher praise than that.”

Rod Oracheski: “Great game that really shows Nintendo might not use the fabled "Nintendo polish" as much as they used to, but they've still got it. Easily the best game on the Wii.”

Sean Garmer: “If you own a Wii, You NEED this game, end of story. It is simply the best thing on the system.”


Other Games in this Genre


Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass (Nintendo DS Adventure Game, Nintendo)



Game Rating: Everyone

Game Review


Theo Fraser: “Portable consoles are likely to get overlooked in this list, as they rarely produce a game that beats out all the competition on all other platforms. But with Phantom Hourglass, Nintendo have created one of the finest adventures we’ve seen all year, and once again reinvented the Zelda series. You simply couldn’t find this on any other console; it fits so perfectly on the DS, making terrific use of every single feature the DS has to offer. Want to see what the DS is truly capable of? Check out Phantom Hourglass”


Resident Evil 4 (Nintendo Wii Survival Horror/Shooter, Capcom)



Game Rating: Mature

Game Review


Owain J. Brimfield: “While the other console versions of Resi 4 were undoubtedly superb, the Wii-make [chortle] takes the biscuit with its fabulously satisfying remote-based head blowing-up-ness. There have been few feelings so satisfying this year as taking the head of a murderous villager with a single well-aimed shotgun blast.”



Shooters


Call of Duty 4 (XBOX 360, PC, PS3 Shooter, Activision)



Game Rating: Mature

Game Review:


Mark Samela: “I think we’ve all played and heard enough about this game, and I have nothing more to add. Just buy it already and get your ass online!”

Damian Sarcuni: “The beauty of COD 4 is that it slows down the pace of the conventional shooter. While the action is still fast, players now have a very stable aiming system that feels balanced and realistic. The online team based play is of course great fun and plays like a standard shooter but with the feel of a chess match. While I don't consider it the best shooter on the market right now, COD 4 is the one to buy for the holiday season.”

Theo Fraser: “The Call of Duty games have always provided a terrific shoot ‘em up experience, and this modern-day incarnation doesn’t disappoint. Yes, it’s still pretty linear, but the set pieces are so brilliantly woven into the gameplay that half the time you won’t even notice you’re being led down a single path. Multiplayer rules as well!”

Rod Oracheski: “The singleplayer experience is short, but incredibly well made, and multiplayer adds a ton of longevity, hoping for some DLC here, because the maps are starting to get a bit too familiar.”


Halo 3 (XBOX 360 Shooter, Microsoft Game Studios & Bungie)



Game Rating: Mature

Game Review:


Rod Oracheski: “Great end to the trilogy, and a whack of new features that future games are going to have to copy. Not just shooters either - you're going to want to see better replays and screenshots in future sports games too. While Call of Duty 4 is great in a LAN, the ability to customize Halo maps and gameplay keeps it on top.”

Jordan Williams: “Really, I shouldn't have to tell you why for this. Now with Either way, this was THE year for shooting games. If you are a fan there's no doubt that you'll find something to like here.”


Half-Life 2: Orange Box (XBOX 360, PS3, & PC Multiple-Shooters, Valve)



Game Rating: Mature

Game Review:


Theo Fraser: “Talk about bang for your buck! This is probably a shoot ‘em up fan’s wet dream right here, with Half Life 2, HL2: Episodes One and Two, plus the all-new Portal and Team Fortress 2. If you don’t own HL2 yet, this is the ONLY game you need this Christmas. You’ve got no excuse. It’s one of the finest shooters of the past few years, and with all these added extras which could count as separate games by themselves, this package is an absolute must buy.”

Rod Oracheski: “While the source engine is getting a bit long in the tooth, the new Episodes look pretty darn good still. A lot of value here if you haven't played the older games, and Portal - while short - is worth experiencing. The 360 saw a solid port and while reports indicate the PS3 port is a little shakier, it's probably still worth a look.”

Vincent Chiucchi: “You get five games (HL2, HL2:E1, HL2:E2, Team Fortress 2, and Portal) for $60, and one of those games has been praised to the point where it alone is worth the $60. If you already have HL2 and HL2:E1, then you can just give the codes away to someone on steam.”


Metroid Prime 3: Corruption (Nintendo Wii Shooter, Nintendo)



Game Rating: Teen

Game Review:


Theo Fraser: “A fantastic indication of how future FPS games could work on the Wii. This is probably the deepest Metroid experience yet, feeling a lot more cinematic than previous outings, so if you’ve been craving a ‘proper’ storyline from your Wii games, look no further. Metroid Prime 3 on the Wii offers such unprecedented and revolutionary control; you really don’t want to miss out on it.”

Sean Garmer: “If you ever wondered if the Wii could do a FPS, here’s your answer. A good story, but the gameplay is amazing, and getting to experience it yourself is what makes it awesome.”


Bioshock (XBOX 360 & PC Shooter, 2K)



Game Rating: Mature

Game Review:


Sean Garmer: “Just a terrific game, the graphics are awesome, the story is involving, and the gameplay is addicting. There’s a big reason it keeps winning game of the year folks.”


Resistance Fall of Man (PS3 Shooter, SCEA)



Game Rating: Mature


Owain J. Brimfield: “A first-generation title that's getting on a bit now but still shows why the PS3 has a lot of potential as a console. It's an epic quest with a genuinely compelling storyline and some innovative weapons and set pieces, and the co-op mode is as good as any around. Admittedly, the final few levels are a little disappointing, but it's still one of my top FPS recommendations for the current console generation.”


Role-Playing Games


Mass Effect (XBOX 360 RPG, Bioware)



Game Rating: Mature


Mark Samela: “It’s great.”

Owain J. Brimfield: “Hell, I'm a sucker for science fiction, and this game does it better than any other recent release. Whether it's strictly an RPG is another matter, but it's a damn good game.”

Theo Fraser: “Bioware’s efforts are always something to get excited about, and this is no exception. Any time a game features alien lesbian sex, it instantly rockets into my Must Buy list! That aside, the story is top notch (as you’d expect from a Bioware title) and the RPG elements on offer give players something to really sink their teeth into. This could last you till next Christmas! The best RPG experience of the current crop; nothing comes close.”

Rod Oracheski: “I can't think of another RPG that I've played through three times, much less three times within a month of release. Great storyline and great characters.”

Jordan Williams: “This year was a petty thing on RPG’s all around, despite having Mass Effect we really didn't get a lot out of the solo games this year. Be that as it may, your best bet would be this one. Just be ready to put A LOT of time into Mass Effect.”

Vincent Chiucchi: “It's a huge game and has a lesbian "sex scene". Can't go wrong with that.”


Blue Dragon (XBOX 360 RPG, Mistwalker)



Game Rating: Teen

Game Review:


Rod Oracheski: “It's been kind of a slow year for RPG's, which gave me time to give this one another shot. It starts pretty slow, but I really started to like the game after a few hours of play. A real throwback to the old days of RPG's, and if you download the harder gameplay modes (free DLC) you'll find it really challenging. Worth a look.”

Sean Garmer: “The game may start out slow, but near the end of Disc 1 (out of 3) it picks up really well, and from there it is a blast to play. The story appeals to all ages and with the mind of the creator of Final Fantasy at work, you can definitely tell that this is an ode to old school RPG’s everywhere.”


Sports Games


Super Mario Strikers Charged (Nintendo Wii Soccer Game, Nintendo)



Game Rating: Everyone

Game Review:


Mark Samela: “Screw Madden, this game was 20 times more fun. This was the only sports game my friends and I actually had tournaments over this year, and the only sports game my friends and I actually wanted to play.”

Sean Garmer: “This game is so much fun, you’ll be playing it for hours. With its mix of Soccer and Hockey it proves an easy game for kids to get into, but there’s something there for everyone to enjoy.”


Other Games in this Genre


FIFA 08 (All Systems Soccer Simulation, EA)



Game Rating: Everyone


Sean Garmer: “Pro Evolution may have been better in past years, but it cannot match FIFA this year. If you want a Soccer sim that acts like a simulation get this game. Besides, it has all the team licenses, great online play, create a tourney and more.”



NHL 08 (XBOX 360, PS3, PC, PS2 Hockey Simulation, EA)



Game Rating: Everyone

Game Review:


Rod Oracheski: “I might bag on EA for the whole 'evil empire' thing, but give credit where it's due - NHL 08 is the best representation of Canada's game that there is. Still not perfect, but improving yearly. Hopefully they've kickstarted 2K into action and next year we'll see some real competition here. Some framerate issues on the PS3 shouldn't dissuade you from picking it up, though the 360 version is a bit more polished.”


Skate (XBOX 360 & PS3 Skating Game, EA)



Game Rating: Teen


Rod Oracheski: “Hey Tony, your audience called and they said they'll see you later. In one fell swoop, Skate dumped Tony Hawk out of the top spot in skateboarding games and made the competition look like something churned out yearly to make money. I don't doubt the Tony Hawk series will rebound and make next year a really great one for fans of the sports sub-genre.”


Fighting Games


Virtua Fighter 5 (XBOX 360 & PS3 Fighting Game, SEGA)




Mark Samela: “Realistic and fun, anyone a fan of the old arcade game owes it to themselves to pick this one up. It’s just too bad PS3 owners like myself got screwed over from the lack of online.”

Owain J. Brimfield: “One of the most in-depth fighting franchises gets even deeper with its fifth incarnational, and the 360 port's addition of online play to the mix means this game could easily last a lifetime. The series has come a long way and you'd have to argue it has peaked here.”

Theo Fraser: “It’s the online play that really makes this, hence why I single out the 360 version. The VF series has long been a multiplayer favourite, but now with the option to take it online, this has become THE game for brawler fans. Combat has been made slightly more accessible, presumably to cater to new fans on Xbox Live, so hopefully the game will see bigger exposure than ever before.”

Rod Oracheski: “Still the most solid fighting game out there, if you want more down-to-earth fighting. The 360 benefits from online play, but PS3 gamers got to enjoy the game first.”


Fire Pro Wrestling Returns (PS2 Wrestling Game, Agetec Inc. & Spike)



Game Rating: Teen

Game Review:


Damian Sarcuni: “Fighting games are another genre that has suffered a major decline lately, and technically Firepro isn't really considered a fighting game. Still, this is classic 2D action at its finest, its cheap, and one can spend endless hours working with the customization engine alone.”


Bleach: Blades of Fate (Nintendo DS Anime Fighter SEGA)



Game Rating: Teen


Vincent Chiucchi: “Don't let the fact that it's an anime title for you. It's actually a great fighting game for the DS, and the handheld could really use one.”



Games to Play with Friends


Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock (XBOX 360, PS2 & PS3 Music Game, Activision)



Game Rating: Teen

Game Review:


Theo Fraser: “Uh, I guess not the Wii version; at least, not until the problems have been fully sorted out. But on other platforms, Guitar Hero 3 proves that the series gets better and better with each installment. The all-new multiplayer battle mode instantly makes this stand out over previous Guitar Heroes, and sounds like an insane amount of fun. It may cost you a fair bit to buy multiple wireless guitars to enjoy the game properly, but if you’re a GH aficionado, you already know it’s more than worth it!”

Rod Oracheski: “It can be hard to get non-gamers to give it a shot, but you'll find it equally hard to get them to stop playing. Wii sound issues aside, it's a great pick-up for gamers on all three next-gen consoles.”

Sean Garmer: “My girlfriend and I, play this all the time. I play on the regular controller and still enjoy it. What am I trying to get at? Well, even those that don’t get the guitar, you can play co-op with a regular controller and rock out together. It is fun to play for anyone on your list.”


Scene-It: LCA (XBOX 360 Board Game, Microsoft Game Studios)



Game Rating: Everyone


Rod Oracheski: While I don't have this one personally, playing it at a friend's house two weekends in a row really has me wanting to pick it up. Decent game, and much less repetition than the regular version.

Sean Garmer: “As a huge fan of the board games, anyone that is needs to pick this up because it is like all the Scene-It’s in one.”


Other Games in this Genre


The Simpsons Game (All Systems Platformer, EA)



Game Rating: Teen

Game Review:


Vincent Chiucchi: “It's fun to play with friends and it's really hilarious.”

Sean Garmer: “Hey, it’s the Simpsons, all the great comedy from the show is here, and if you have a few friends its even better”


Gears of War (XBOX 360 & PC Shooter, Epic Games)



Game Rating: Mature


Damian Sarcuni: Everyone has it, everyone loves it. Even the best shooters of the year don't capture the feel of comraderie as vicious looking aliens lunge for your throat in the darkets jungles of this game. Go through co-op one more time, even though you've probably long since mastered it. It's still fun.


Driving Games


Motorstorm (PS3 Driving Game SCEE)



Game Rating: Teen

Game Review:


Mark Samela: “Mark like crashing, Mark like making other people crash, Mark like Motorstorm.”

Owain J. Brimfield: “Despite the horrendous absence of a splitscreen multiplayer, and the fact that it's not as innovative as it thinks it is, the game is still a thrill-a-minute racer, and the fun of plowing through motorbikes with a 4X4 will never get old. Great visuals, too, and tracks that have a hundred different shortcuts.”

Theo Fraser: “Hell, I just love it for the crashes! The physics engine is great to mess around with, and even though the actual driving part of the game is very solid, I personally think the most fun to be had with this game is to see what kind of crazy stunt you can botch! Bonus marks if it looks painful.”


Forza Motorsport 2 (XBOX 360 Driving Game Microsoft Game Studios)



Game Rating: Everyone

Game Review:


Damian Sarcuni: “If you haven't picked up Forza 2 yet, whether on its own or some sort of package deal, then you are missing out. Forza presents the greatest balance between arcade racers and driving simulators ever seen, and I highly doubt that the upcoming Gran Turismo 5 will be able to top it. Forza has all the customization and tuning of a simulator, with the fast action and decals of an arcade driver. Overall, its great fun and a must have for any race fan.”

Rod Oracheski: “If you like your racing simulation-style, this is the current king of the genre. A great driving engine that features car customization out the wazoo and damage to your precious ride if you get too wild on the corners, Forza's racing will hook motorheads. Support via DLC has been good, meaning this one might have more legs than normal.”


Project Gotham Racing 4 (XBOX 360 Driving Game, Microsoft Game Studios)



Game Rating: Everyone

Game Review:


Rod Oracheski: “If you prefer your racing to be a bit more arcade-oriented, PGR 4 is more your speed. Possibly the best in the series, and the last by Bizarre Creations, PGR 4 is definitely worth a look.”



Games for the Kids


Viva Piñata (XBOX 360 Virtual Life, RARE)



Game Rating: Everyone

Game Review:


Damian Sarcuni: “Life is hard, and then you die. This is a concept that isn't exactly easy to impart to your kids. Viva Pinata helps, and sets a perfect example for every life lesson I can think of. Plus, the vibrant colors and quirky characters soften the blow for the impending tragedy in your child's life. Oh yeah, it's also cute.”

Rod Oracheski: “I'd largely forgotten this one until Damian mentioned it, great game for kids, with tons of bright colors and cute characters. The forgiving gameplay will mean they can't lose the game - no matter how badly you play, you can always get a garden going again with a few minutes of attention. Younger kids probably won't master the micro-management side of things, which can allow you parents to look like a genius when you pitch in to help out.”


LEGO STAR WARS: Complete Saga (XBOX 360, PS3, Nintendo Wii & DS Action Game, LucasArts)



Game Rating: Everyone


Damian Sarcuni: “If you haven't checked out the Lego Star Wars series yet, this is the best time to do so. Fun for all ages, Lego Star Wars replaces conventional action gameplay with puzzles and humor. While the games do run on the easy side, you'll spend a surprising amount of time puzzling over how to move from section to section of the game. This combined with the Lego style humor of the popular sci-fi saga makes for an innovative, great game. Play it now because next year, we'll all be looking forward Lego Batman as well.”

Theo Fraser: “LEGO and Star Wars, a perfect combination for kids. Previous games under the LEGO Star Wars banner have been a major hit with younger gamers, so this one is an easy recommendation. Perhaps not if they already own the last two games, as this is more or less a “Best Of”, although the Wii version comes with added Wii-mote gestured lightsaber goodness, and let’s face it...what kid wouldn’t want to mess around with that?! It’s also a genuinely good game. I hate the idea that it’s OK to pass off crappy games to kids, so I could sleep happy knowing that somewhere on Christmas morning, someone is waking up to a GOOD video game Christmas present.”


Super Paper Mario (Nintendo Wii Platformer/RPG, Nintendo)



Game Rating: Everyone


Mark Samela: “If this genera was for groups of kids I would have said Mario Party 8, but overall Super Paper Mario is one hell of a game. Some will say this is too hard for kids to play, but come on. NES games were 10 times harder then any game now days *Contra*, and we still had fun and beat them *maybe not Contra* as kids, didn’t we?”



Well, we are done here. We hope you all enjoy the holidays, and we’ll be back with our choices for the Game of the Year in January. Do you have something to add? Go ahead and leave us a comment, it is greatly appreciated.



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